Life Online

There's a world to explore. You can begin your explorations on the internet, but it presents risks as well as opportunities. The same is true for all the new electronic wireless devices that everyone seems to carry. The tips below are good ones to follow and it's useful to talk with friends and your tutor if you ever need more information or face a dilemma about your internet or wireless use.

Your Responsibilities

• Don't open files from people or organisations you don't know. Beware of 'phishing' scams that might look like they are from your bank or other financial organisation and never give out your account details.
• Protect your personal information online, on your mobile, or in social networking sites. Learn about the security settings on social media. Be careful what you send/post - is it information you're comfortable with sharing with all the world?
• Remember, potential employers may search for information about you on social networking sites while they are considering their recruitment decisions.
• If you receive an offer via email that sounds too good to be true - it probably is.
• If you have talked to someone online and need to meet with them, do so in a familiar and busy public place and make sure someone you trust knows where you are going and who you are meeting.
• Don't open emails from someone you know is a bully. Don't harass anyone online or by email or text message. If you get a message that is meant to bully someone else, don't forward it.
• If you are being bullied or harassed, whether by text message or photo, speak to your tutor. You're never too old to ask for help.
• Don't send a picture of someone else by email, text or other message service without their prior permission.
• Don't send anyone a revealing or other inappropriate picture of yourself or someone else by internet or text message, even just to flirt. You could be breaking the law, which could have serious consequences.
• Protect your computer and/or phone with a password or code. Make them hard to figure out. Don't tell anyone your password, not even your friends.
• If someone sends a mean or threatening message, don't respond.
• Keep your antivirus and anti-spam software up to date.
• If you suspect any criminal activity on any website, report it to the police as soon as possible.

If you have any questions or concerns about your use of the internet, email or mobile device - please speak to your tutor.